10397886

Power Reservation for Carrier Aggregation Signaling During Shortened Transmission Time Intervals

PublishedAugust 27, 2019
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
52 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: identifying, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC having a first transmission time interval (TTI) duration as a reference CC and a second CC having a second TTI duration different from the first TTI duration; determining, at a first TTI boundary of a first TTI of the reference CC, a first transmit power for the reference CC and a second transmit power for the second CC of the plurality of CCs; determining an amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI for adjusting the second transmit power at second TTI boundaries of the second CC; selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power; and transmitting, during the first TTI, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the second transmit power for the second CC, based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved, wherein the transmitting comprises digitally backing off from a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically carrier aggregation (CA) in user equipment (UE) where component carriers (CCs) have different transmission time interval (TTI) durations. The problem addressed is managing transmit power across CCs with varying TTI lengths to ensure efficient power allocation and calibration while avoiding interference. The method involves selecting a reference CC with a first TTI duration and at least one additional CC with a different TTI duration. At the boundary of the reference CC's TTI, the UE determines transmit power levels for both the reference CC and the additional CC. It then reserves a portion of the transmit power during the reference CC's TTI to adjust the power of the additional CC at its own TTI boundaries. A power amplifier (PA) gain value is selected based on the reserved power, the reference CC's transmit power, and the additional CC's transmit power. During transmission, the UE digitally reduces (backs off) from the PA's calibration point power to meet the calculated transmit power levels for both CCs. This ensures proper power distribution across CCs with different TTI durations while maintaining signal integrity and compliance with regulatory limits.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI comprises: receiving, from a base station, an indication of the amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

In wireless communication systems, efficient power management is critical for maintaining reliable data transmission while minimizing interference. A method addresses the challenge of dynamically allocating transmit power in a first transmission time interval (TTI) by receiving an explicit indication from a base station. This indication specifies the exact amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI, allowing the device to adjust its transmission accordingly. The base station determines the reserved power based on factors such as network conditions, interference levels, or quality of service requirements. By receiving this directive, the device ensures that the reserved power aligns with the network's operational needs, optimizing overall system performance. This approach enhances coordination between the base station and the device, reducing the risk of power conflicts and improving spectral efficiency. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where dynamic power adjustments are necessary to accommodate varying traffic loads or interference patterns.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining the amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI comprises: autonomously determining the amount of transmit power to reserve during the first TTI; and transmitting, to a base station, an indication of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically power management in time-division duplex (TDD) networks. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation of transmit power in a user device (UE) to balance uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) communication needs while avoiding interference. The invention focuses on dynamically reserving transmit power during a transmission time interval (TTI) to ensure reliable communication without overutilizing available power resources. The method involves autonomously determining the amount of transmit power to reserve during a TTI based on current communication demands and network conditions. The UE calculates this reservation without direct instruction from the base station, allowing for real-time adjustments. After determining the reserved power, the UE transmits an indication of this reserved amount to the base station. This notification enables the base station to adjust its scheduling and power allocation strategies accordingly, improving overall network efficiency and reducing interference. The autonomous determination process may consider factors such as signal quality, traffic load, and power constraints to optimize performance. By dynamically reserving and reporting power usage, the invention enhances flexibility in TDD systems, particularly in scenarios with varying UL/DL traffic patterns. This approach ensures that the UE maintains sufficient power for critical transmissions while minimizing unnecessary power consumption.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the indication is transmitted in a power headroom (PHR) report.

Plain English Translation

A method for wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently managing power allocation in devices operating under varying channel conditions. The method involves generating an indication of power headroom, which represents the difference between a device's maximum transmit power and the power required for current transmissions. This indication is transmitted in a power headroom report (PHR) to a network node, such as a base station, to enable dynamic power control and resource allocation. The PHR includes parameters like the device's current power usage, maximum power capability, and path loss estimates, allowing the network to optimize uplink transmissions and mitigate interference. The method ensures accurate power reporting even in scenarios with multiple transmission layers or carrier aggregation, where power management becomes more complex. By integrating the indication into the PHR, the system enhances efficiency and reliability in power allocation decisions, supporting seamless communication in diverse network environments.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: identifying an updated second transmit power for the second CC during a duration of the first TTI and at a second TTI boundary of a second TTI on the second CC, the second TTI boundary being unaligned with the first TTI boundary; and maintaining the PA gain value for the calibration point while transmitting during the first TTI at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the updated second transmit power for the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to power control in multi-carrier communication systems where component carriers (CCs) operate with unaligned transmission time intervals (TTIs). The problem addressed is maintaining consistent power amplifier (PA) gain calibration across multiple CCs when their TTIs are not synchronized, which can lead to power control inaccuracies and degraded performance. The method involves adjusting transmit power for a second CC while preserving a calibrated PA gain value for a reference CC. During a first TTI on the reference CC, an updated transmit power for the second CC is determined. This adjustment occurs within the duration of the first TTI and at a second TTI boundary on the second CC, which is unaligned with the first TTI boundary. The PA gain value for the calibration point remains unchanged while transmitting simultaneously at the first transmit power for the reference CC and the updated second transmit power for the second CC. This ensures stable power control despite TTI misalignment, improving signal quality and system efficiency in multi-carrier environments. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where dynamic power adjustments are needed without disrupting existing calibrations.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein maintaining the PA gain value for the calibration point comprises: adjusting an amount of digital back-off from the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power amplifier (PA) calibration in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining accurate PA gain values during transmission to ensure optimal power control and signal integrity. The method involves adjusting the digital back-off from the transmit power to compensate for variations in the PA gain at specific calibration points. This adjustment ensures that the PA operates within its linear region, preventing distortion and maintaining signal quality. The calibration process involves determining the PA gain value for a given calibration point, which is then used to adjust the digital back-off. By dynamically modifying the back-off, the system compensates for changes in PA characteristics, such as those caused by temperature or component aging, thereby improving transmission efficiency and reliability. The method is particularly useful in systems where precise power control is critical, such as in 5G and other advanced wireless networks. The adjustment of digital back-off ensures that the transmit power remains consistent and within specified limits, enhancing overall system performance.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: identifying an updated second transmit power for the second CC during a duration of the first TTI and at a second TTI boundary of a second TTI on the second CC, the second TTI boundary being unaligned with the first TTI boundary; identifying that a sum of the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power exceeds the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; identifying a transient period for a PA gain adjustment; updating the PA gain value for a different calibration point during the transient period based at least in part on the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power; and transmitting, during the first TTI of the reference CC and during the second TTI of the second CC, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the updated second transmit power for the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing power amplification (PA) gain adjustments in multi-carrier (multi-CC) transmissions where component carriers (CCs) operate with unaligned transmission time intervals (TTIs). The problem addressed is ensuring stable power transmission when adjusting PA gain values across multiple CCs with misaligned TTI boundaries, preventing power overshoot that could exceed hardware limits. The method involves dynamically adjusting PA gain during a transient period when the sum of transmit powers from different CCs exceeds the maximum allowable power defined by a calibration point. First, a second transmit power for a second CC is updated during a first TTI on a reference CC, while the second CC's TTI boundary is unaligned with the reference CC's TTI boundary. If the combined transmit power of the reference CC and the updated second CC exceeds the PA's calibrated power limit, a transient period is identified for PA gain adjustment. During this period, the PA gain value is updated based on the current transmit powers of both CCs. Finally, transmissions proceed at the adjusted powers for both CCs during their respective TTIs, ensuring compliance with power constraints while maintaining signal integrity. This approach prevents power amplification instability in multi-carrier systems with asynchronous TTIs.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the second TTI comprises any one of one or more TTIs of the second CC that overlap with the first TTI of the first CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing transmission time intervals (TTIs) in carrier aggregation (CA) scenarios where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used. The problem addressed is the potential overlap of TTIs between different CCs, which can lead to scheduling conflicts, resource contention, or inefficient use of radio resources. The method involves selecting a second TTI from a second CC that overlaps with a first TTI of a first CC. The second TTI is chosen from one or more available TTIs of the second CC that coincide in time with the first TTI. This selection allows for coordinated scheduling or resource allocation between the two CCs, ensuring that transmissions do not interfere with each other and that resources are used efficiently. The method may be part of a broader process for managing TTI alignment or prioritization in multi-CC environments, where different CCs may operate with different timing configurations or subframe structures. By identifying and utilizing overlapping TTIs, the system can improve data throughput, reduce latency, and enhance overall network performance in carrier aggregation scenarios.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PA gain value for the calibration point is selected based at least in part on a sum of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power amplification (PA) calibration in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of accurately determining PA gain values for calibration points to optimize transmit power allocation. The method involves selecting a PA gain value for a calibration point based on a combination of transmit power parameters. The selection process considers the sum of the transmit power reserved during a first transmission time interval (TTI), the first transmit power, and the second transmit power. This approach ensures precise calibration by accounting for dynamic power adjustments and reserved power margins, improving signal quality and efficiency in wireless transmissions. The method may also involve adjusting the PA gain value based on additional factors such as interference levels or channel conditions to further refine calibration accuracy. By dynamically selecting the PA gain value, the system can maintain optimal performance across varying operational conditions, reducing power wastage and enhancing communication reliability. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where power allocation must be carefully managed to meet regulatory limits or system constraints while maximizing data throughput.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point is equal to or greater than the sum of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power control in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of managing transmit power during calibration to ensure reliable signal transmission while accounting for reserved power and dynamic adjustments. The method involves calibrating a power amplifier (PA) by determining a gain value for a calibration point, where the transmit power associated with this gain must meet or exceed the combined power requirements of reserved power during a transmission time interval (TTI), a first transmit power level, and a second transmit power level. The first transmit power may correspond to a primary signal, while the second transmit power could relate to an additional signal or adjustment. The calibration process ensures that the PA operates within safe limits while maintaining sufficient power for all active transmissions, preventing signal degradation or interference. This approach is particularly useful in systems where power allocation must dynamically adapt to varying conditions, such as in 5G or other advanced wireless networks. The method helps optimize power usage, improve signal integrity, and avoid disruptions caused by insufficient power during calibration.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI is based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing transmit power across multiple component carriers (CCs) in a time division duplex (TDD) system. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power allocation when a user equipment (UE) operates on multiple CCs with overlapping uplink (UL) and downlink (DL) subframes, which can lead to power conflicts and reduced performance. The method involves reserving transmit power during a first transmission time interval (TTI) on a first CC to accommodate expected power increases on a second CC during the same TTI. The reserved power accounts for anticipated power adjustments, such as those caused by changes in modulation and coding schemes, channel conditions, or scheduling decisions. By pre-allocating power, the system avoids power starvation or excessive power scaling, which can degrade communication quality. The approach dynamically adjusts power distribution based on real-time conditions, ensuring stable and efficient operation across multiple CCs. This technique is particularly useful in TDD systems where UL and DL subframes may overlap, requiring careful power management to maintain signal integrity and system throughput.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: transmitting an indication of an actual amount of power reserved for the expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC.

Plain English Translation

In wireless communication systems, managing power allocation across multiple component carriers (CCs) is critical for maintaining signal quality and efficiency. A key challenge is dynamically adjusting power distribution to accommodate expected transmit power increases on one CC while ensuring stable operation on another. This invention addresses this by providing a method for power control in a wireless communication system using multiple CCs. The method involves monitoring a reference CC to detect a need for power adjustment, then reserving power on a second CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI) of the reference CC. This reservation ensures that sufficient power is available for expected increases in transmit power on the second CC. Additionally, the method includes transmitting an indication of the actual amount of power reserved for these increases, allowing the system to dynamically adapt power allocation in real-time. This approach improves power efficiency and reduces interference, particularly in scenarios where power adjustments are necessary across multiple CCs. The solution is applicable to advanced wireless communication standards, such as 5G, where efficient power management is essential for high-performance data transmission.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method of claim 1 , wherein identifying the reference CC is based at least in part on the first TTI duration being longer than the second TTI duration.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for identifying and managing reference communication channels (CCs) in scenarios involving different transmission time intervals (TTIs). The problem addressed is optimizing resource allocation and signal processing when multiple TTIs are used, particularly when a longer TTI duration is involved. The method involves determining a reference CC by comparing the durations of two TTIs. If the first TTI duration is longer than the second, the reference CC is identified based on this condition. This approach ensures proper synchronization and efficient use of communication resources, especially in systems where different TTI lengths are employed for different types of data or control signals. The method may also involve additional steps such as selecting or configuring communication parameters based on the identified reference CC, ensuring compatibility and performance across varying TTI configurations. The solution is particularly useful in advanced wireless networks where flexible TTI management is required to support diverse traffic types and quality-of-service requirements.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reference CC and the second CC are within a same frequency band.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for wireless communication involves managing communication channels (CCs) to improve efficiency and reliability. The technology addresses challenges in wireless networks where multiple communication channels are used, such as interference, bandwidth limitations, and coordination between devices. The invention includes a method for selecting and utilizing communication channels, where a reference communication channel (CC) and a second CC operate within the same frequency band. This ensures compatibility and reduces complexity in channel switching and synchronization. The method may involve dynamically assigning or reassigning channels based on network conditions, such as signal strength, interference levels, or traffic load. By keeping the reference CC and the second CC within the same frequency band, the system avoids the need for complex frequency-hopping mechanisms or inter-band coordination, improving efficiency and reducing latency. The invention may be applied in various wireless communication standards, including Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or IoT devices, where reliable and efficient channel management is critical. The method ensures seamless communication by maintaining consistent channel conditions, enhancing overall network performance.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The method of claim 1 , wherein a same PA is used by the UE for transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC.

Plain English Translation

A method for wireless communication involves managing power amplification in a user equipment (UE) device operating in a multi-carrier system. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of using separate power amplifiers (PAs) for different component carriers (CCs) in carrier aggregation scenarios, which increases hardware cost and power consumption. The invention provides a solution by reusing a single power amplifier for transmissions on both a reference component carrier and a second component carrier. This approach simplifies the UE design by reducing the number of required PAs, thereby lowering hardware complexity and power usage. The method ensures that the same PA is utilized for both carriers, optimizing resource allocation and maintaining signal integrity across multiple frequency bands. This technique is particularly useful in advanced wireless systems where carrier aggregation is employed to enhance data rates and spectral efficiency. By sharing a single PA, the UE achieves cost savings and improved energy efficiency without compromising performance. The invention is applicable in 4G LTE and 5G NR networks where carrier aggregation is a key feature for achieving higher throughput and better coverage.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved is equal to a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A method for managing transmit power in wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating power across multiple component carriers (CCs) to avoid interference and ensure reliable data transmission. The method involves reserving a specific amount of transmit power for a secondary component carrier (CC) during a transmission time interval (TTI) while maintaining communication on a reference CC. The reserved power is determined based on the power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on both the reference CC and the secondary CC during the same TTI. Power headroom represents the difference between the maximum transmit power a device can use and the power currently being used, ensuring that the device does not exceed regulatory or hardware limits. By dynamically adjusting the reserved power according to the PHR, the method optimizes power allocation, reduces interference, and improves overall communication efficiency. This approach is particularly useful in multi-carrier wireless systems where efficient power management is critical for maintaining performance and minimizing disruptions.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved is less than a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically power management in multi-carrier transmissions. The problem addressed is efficiently allocating transmit power across multiple component carriers (CCs) to avoid interference and ensure reliable communication while optimizing power usage. The method involves reserving a portion of transmit power for a secondary component carrier (CC) during a transmission time interval (TTI) while the primary (reference) CC is also active. The reserved power is dynamically adjusted based on the power headroom (PHR) available on both carriers. The key innovation is that the reserved power is intentionally set below the total available PHR, ensuring that the primary CC retains sufficient power for its transmissions while still allowing the secondary CC to operate without causing interference or exceeding power constraints. This approach improves spectral efficiency and reduces the risk of transmission failures due to power starvation. The method ensures that power allocation remains within regulatory limits and avoids excessive power consumption, which could degrade battery life in mobile devices. By dynamically adjusting the reserved power based on real-time PHR measurements, the system adapts to varying channel conditions and traffic demands, maintaining stable communication across both carriers. This technique is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple carriers are used to increase data throughput or reliability in wireless networks.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. A method for wireless communication, comprising: identifying, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC as a reference CC; transmitting, to a user equipment (UE), a first indication of a first transmit power for transmissions on the reference CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI) and a second transmit power for transmissions on a second CC of the plurality of CCs during a second TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; identifying a reserved amount of transmit power based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; transmitting, to the UE, a reserved power indication indicating the reserved amount of transmit power to be used by the UE in selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point; determining whether a total uplink transmit power for the first CC and the second CC exceeds a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; and communicating with the UE based at least in part on a result of the determining, including allocating a transient period to the UE for selecting an updated calibration point or identifying a phase discontinuity in an uplink transmission from the UE.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically carrier aggregation (CA) in uplink transmissions where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used simultaneously. The problem addressed is managing transmit power across different CCs to avoid power amplifier (PA) saturation and ensure stable communication, particularly when transmit power adjustments on one CC may affect another due to overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). The method involves selecting a reference CC from multiple CCs in a CA setup. A first transmit power is set for the reference CC during a first TTI, while a second transmit power is set for a second CC during a second TTI that overlaps with the first TTI. The system reserves a portion of transmit power based on expected power increases on the second CC during the reference CC's TTI. This reserved power is communicated to the user equipment (UE) to assist in selecting an appropriate PA gain value for calibration. The system then checks if the combined uplink transmit power of the reference CC and the second CC exceeds the PA's calibrated power limit. If it does, the UE is allocated a transient period to adjust to an updated calibration point or to detect phase discontinuities in its uplink transmissions. This ensures efficient power management and avoids signal degradation due to PA limitations.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The method of claim 18 , further comprising: receiving, from the UE, a PA power indication indicating an actual amount of power reserved for the expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; and determining an updated reserved amount of transmit power for a subsequent TTI on the reference CC based at least in part on receiving the PA power indication.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power management in wireless communication systems, specifically for user equipment (UE) operating with carrier aggregation (CA) across multiple component carriers (CCs). The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power allocation when a UE dynamically adjusts its transmit power across multiple CCs, particularly during transitions between transmission time intervals (TTIs). The invention provides a method for managing power amplifier (PA) power reservations to prevent interference and maintain communication reliability. The method involves a UE transmitting on a reference CC while preparing for expected power increases on a second CC during a TTI of the reference CC. The UE sends a PA power indication to a network node, specifying the actual amount of power reserved for these expected increases. The network node then determines an updated reserved power amount for a subsequent TTI on the reference CC based on this indication. This dynamic adjustment helps optimize power usage, avoiding unnecessary reservations while ensuring sufficient power is available for upcoming transmissions. The method may also include the UE receiving a power control command from the network node, which adjusts the reserved power based on the PA power indication. This ensures coordinated power management between the UE and the network, improving efficiency and reliability in CA scenarios.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The method of claim 19 , further comprising: identifying an updated second transmit power used for transmissions on the second CC during a third TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; determining that the total uplink transmit power comprising a sum of the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power exceeds the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; identifying a break in phase continuity of the transmissions on the reference CC during the first TTI based at least in part on the determination; and demodulating the transmissions on the reference CC during the first TTI based at least in part on identifying the break in phase continuity.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing uplink transmit power and phase continuity in multi-carrier transmissions. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable demodulation of reference carrier transmissions when power adjustments on secondary component carriers (CCs) cause phase discontinuities. The method involves monitoring transmit power across multiple carriers during overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). If the combined uplink transmit power from a primary carrier and a secondary carrier exceeds the power amplifier (PA) gain capacity, a phase discontinuity occurs on the reference carrier. The system detects this discontinuity by comparing the total transmit power against the PA's calibrated power limit. Upon detecting the discontinuity, the system adjusts demodulation of the reference carrier transmissions to account for the phase break, ensuring accurate signal interpretation despite power fluctuations. This approach prevents demodulation errors that would otherwise arise from uncompensated phase shifts during concurrent multi-carrier transmissions. The solution is particularly relevant in scenarios where dynamic power adjustments are necessary to maintain signal integrity across multiple carriers in wireless networks.

Claim 21

Original Legal Text

21. The method of claim 18 , wherein identifying the reference CC is based at least in part on the first TTI of the reference CC having a longer duration than a duration of the second TTI of the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for identifying and utilizing reference component carriers (CCs) in multi-carrier communication environments. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently determine a reference CC for synchronization and control signaling in systems where multiple CCs with different transmission time intervals (TTIs) are active. The solution involves selecting a reference CC based on the duration of its TTI being longer than the TTI of at least one other CC. The reference CC is used to establish timing and synchronization for other CCs, ensuring reliable communication and reducing overhead. The method includes monitoring the TTI durations of active CCs, comparing them to identify the longest TTI, and designating the corresponding CC as the reference. This approach optimizes resource allocation and minimizes latency by leveraging the inherent timing characteristics of the CCs. The invention is particularly useful in advanced wireless networks where multiple CCs with varying TTI configurations coexist, such as in 5G or beyond-5G systems. The solution improves system efficiency by simplifying synchronization processes and reducing the complexity of managing multiple CCs with different timing requirements.

Claim 22

Original Legal Text

22. The method of claim 18 , wherein the reference CC and the second CC are within a same frequency band.

Plain English Translation

A method for wireless communication involves managing communication channels (CCs) to improve efficiency and reliability. The method addresses the challenge of optimizing resource allocation in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios where multiple communication channels are available. The invention ensures that a reference communication channel (CC) and a second CC operate within the same frequency band. This alignment within the same frequency band helps reduce interference, improve synchronization, and enhance overall system performance. The method may involve dynamically selecting or adjusting the CCs based on network conditions, user requirements, or other operational parameters. By maintaining both the reference and second CCs in the same frequency band, the system can achieve better coordination, reduce latency, and improve data throughput. The technique is particularly useful in wireless networks where multiple devices or nodes need to communicate efficiently while minimizing resource conflicts. The method may also include mechanisms for monitoring channel quality, switching between channels, or prioritizing traffic to optimize performance. The overall goal is to provide a robust and efficient communication framework that leverages the advantages of operating within a single frequency band.

Claim 23

Original Legal Text

23. The method of claim 18 , wherein the reserved amount of transmit power is equal to a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A method for managing transmit power in wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating power across multiple component carriers (CCs) to ensure reliable data transmission while avoiding interference. The method involves dynamically adjusting the transmit power of a user device based on power headroom (PHR) measurements, which indicate the remaining power available for transmission on a reference CC and a second CC during a transmission time interval (TTI). By reserving a portion of the transmit power equal to the PHR, the method ensures that the device can maintain stable communication links on both CCs, even under varying channel conditions. This approach optimizes power usage, reduces the risk of signal degradation, and improves overall system performance. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple CCs are active simultaneously, such as in carrier aggregation (CA) configurations, where efficient power management is critical to maintaining high data rates and low latency. The reserved power amount is dynamically recalculated for each TTI to adapt to real-time changes in channel conditions and traffic demands, ensuring consistent and reliable communication.

Claim 24

Original Legal Text

24. The method of claim 18 , wherein the reserved amount of transmit power is less than a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A method for managing transmit power in wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating power across multiple component carriers (CCs) to avoid interference and ensure reliable data transmission. The method involves reserving a portion of transmit power for a secondary component carrier (CC) while ensuring that the reserved power is less than the power headroom (PHR) available during a transmission time interval (TTI). The PHR represents the difference between the maximum transmit power and the power already allocated to transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC. By limiting the reserved power to less than the PHR, the method ensures that the total transmit power does not exceed regulatory or device limitations while maintaining stable communication on both carriers. This approach optimizes power distribution, reduces interference, and improves overall system performance in multi-carrier wireless networks. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where dynamic power adjustments are needed to accommodate varying channel conditions or traffic loads across multiple CCs.

Claim 25

Original Legal Text

25. A mobile device for wireless communication, comprising: a processor; memory coupled with the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and operable, when executed by the processor, to cause the mobile device to: identify, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC having a first transmission time interval (TTI) duration as a reference CC and a second CC having a second TTI duration different from the first TTI duration; determine, at a first TTI boundary of a first TTI of the reference CC, a first transmit power for the reference CC and a second transmit power for the second CC of the plurality of CCs; determine an amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI for adjusting the second transmit power at second TTI boundaries of the second CC; select a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power; and transmit, during the first TTI, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the second transmit power for the second CC, based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved, wherein the transmitting comprises digitally backing off from a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication in mobile devices using carrier aggregation (CA), where multiple component carriers (CCs) with different transmission time interval (TTI) durations are managed. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power control and calibration in CA scenarios where CCs have varying TTI lengths, which can lead to power allocation conflicts and suboptimal performance. The mobile device includes a processor and memory storing instructions to manage power control across CCs. It identifies a reference CC with a first TTI duration and at least one other CC with a different TTI duration. At the TTI boundary of the reference CC, the device calculates transmit powers for both the reference CC and the other CC. It then reserves a portion of the transmit power during the reference CC's TTI to adjust the transmit power of the other CC at its own TTI boundaries. A power amplifier (PA) gain value is selected based on the reserved power, the reference CC's transmit power, and the other CC's transmit power. During transmission, the device digitally backs off from the PA gain value's transmit power to ensure proper power allocation across the CCs. This approach optimizes power usage and maintains signal integrity in CA communications with mismatched TTI durations.

Claim 26

Original Legal Text

26. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: receive, from a base station, an indication of the amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile communication devices and power management in wireless networks. The problem addressed is optimizing power usage in mobile devices during transmission time intervals (TTIs) to improve efficiency and reduce interference. The invention involves a mobile device configured to manage transmit power dynamically based on instructions from a base station. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to receive an indication of the amount of transmit power to be reserved during a first TTI. This allows the device to allocate power resources efficiently, ensuring compliance with network requirements while minimizing unnecessary power consumption. The mobile device may also adjust its transmit power based on additional factors such as signal quality, network load, or device battery status. The base station dynamically controls the reserved power amount to optimize network performance and reduce interference between devices. This approach enhances spectral efficiency and battery life in mobile devices by dynamically reserving transmit power during specific TTIs, ensuring optimal use of available resources.

Claim 27

Original Legal Text

27. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: autonomously determine the amount of transmit power to reserve during the first TTI; and transmit, to a base station, an indication of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile device power management in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently allocating transmit power during transmission time intervals (TTIs) to optimize performance and resource utilization. The mobile device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to autonomously determine the amount of transmit power to reserve during a first TTI. The device then transmits an indication of the reserved power amount to a base station. This allows the base station to dynamically adjust scheduling and resource allocation based on the mobile device's power reservation, improving network efficiency and reducing interference. The invention also involves the mobile device receiving a power control command from the base station, which may adjust the reserved power level. The device further monitors channel conditions and adjusts the reserved power accordingly, ensuring adaptive power management. This approach enhances spectral efficiency and minimizes power wastage while maintaining reliable communication. The system operates within a wireless network, where the mobile device and base station coordinate power allocation to optimize overall network performance.

Claim 28

Original Legal Text

28. The mobile device of claim 27 , wherein the indication is transmitted in a power headroom (PHR) report.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving power control and resource management in mobile devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient signaling of power-related information between a mobile device and a network to optimize transmission power and avoid interference. The invention describes a mobile device configured to transmit an indication of its power status to a network. This indication is sent in a power headroom (PHR) report, which is a standardized message used in wireless systems to convey the difference between a device's maximum transmit power and the power required for current transmissions. By including additional power-related information in the PHR report, the device enables the network to make better decisions about resource allocation, power control, and interference management. The mobile device includes a processor and a transceiver. The processor determines the power status, such as remaining power headroom or power limitations, and generates the PHR report with the indication. The transceiver then transmits this report to the network. The network can use this information to adjust uplink scheduling, power control commands, or other parameters to improve overall system efficiency. This approach enhances power management in wireless networks by leveraging existing PHR reporting mechanisms, reducing the need for additional signaling overhead. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where power efficiency is critical, such as in energy-constrained devices or dense network deployments.

Claim 29

Original Legal Text

29. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: identify an updated second transmit power for the second CC during a duration of the first TTI and at a second TTI boundary of a second TTI on the second CC, the second TTI boundary being unaligned with the first TTI boundary; and maintain the PA gain value for the calibration point while transmitting during the first TTI at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the updated second transmit power for the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically power amplification and calibration in multi-carrier mobile devices. The problem addressed is maintaining accurate power amplifier (PA) gain calibration across multiple component carriers (CCs) with unaligned transmission time intervals (TTIs), which can lead to signal distortion or inefficiency. The mobile device includes a power amplifier and a processor executing instructions to manage transmit power across multiple CCs. The device identifies a reference CC and a second CC with unaligned TTI boundaries. During a first TTI on the reference CC, the device determines a first transmit power for the reference CC and an initial second transmit power for the second CC. The device then calibrates the PA gain for a specific calibration point based on the first transmit power. During the first TTI, the device may update the second transmit power for the second CC at a second TTI boundary that does not align with the first TTI boundary. Despite this update, the device maintains the calibrated PA gain value for the calibration point while transmitting simultaneously on both CCs—using the first transmit power for the reference CC and the updated second transmit power for the second CC. This ensures consistent PA performance even when TTIs are misaligned, improving signal quality and efficiency in multi-carrier communication.

Claim 30

Original Legal Text

30. The mobile device of claim 29 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: adjust an amount of digital back-off from the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile devices with power amplifier (PA) calibration systems. The problem addressed is optimizing transmit power control in mobile devices to ensure compliance with regulatory limits while maintaining signal quality. The invention involves a mobile device with a processor and memory storing instructions for calibrating a power amplifier. The calibration process includes determining a PA gain value for a calibration point, which is a specific operating condition of the mobile device. The device then adjusts the transmit power based on this PA gain value to ensure accurate power output. Additionally, the device adjusts the amount of digital back-off from the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value. Digital back-off is a technique used to reduce transmit power to prevent distortion and meet regulatory requirements. By dynamically adjusting this back-off based on the PA gain value, the device can optimize power efficiency and signal integrity. The calibration process may involve measuring output power, comparing it to a target value, and iteratively adjusting the PA gain until the output matches the target. This ensures the mobile device operates within legal limits while maximizing performance. The invention improves upon prior art by providing a more precise and adaptive calibration method, reducing power waste and improving signal quality.

Claim 31

Original Legal Text

31. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: identify an updated second transmit power for the second CC during a duration of the first TTI and at a second TTI boundary of a second TTI on the second CC, the second TTI boundary being unaligned with the first TTI boundary; identify that a sum of the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power exceeds the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; identify a transient period for a PA gain adjustment; update the PA gain value for a different calibration point during the transient period based at least in part on the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power; and transmit, during the first TTI of the reference CC and during the second TTI of the second CC, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the updated second transmit power for the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power amplification in mobile devices, specifically managing transmit power across multiple component carriers (CCs) with unaligned transmission time intervals (TTIs). The problem addressed is ensuring power amplifier (PA) gain adjustments do not cause excessive power output when multiple CCs are active, particularly when their TTIs are misaligned. The solution involves dynamically adjusting PA gain during a transient period to prevent the sum of transmit powers from exceeding a safe limit. The mobile device monitors transmit power levels on a reference CC and a second CC, which operate on different TTI boundaries. If the combined power exceeds a predefined calibration point, the device identifies a transient period for gain adjustment. During this period, the PA gain is updated based on the current transmit powers of both CCs to maintain compliance with power constraints. The device then transmits at the adjusted power levels across the respective TTIs. This approach ensures stable power output without disrupting ongoing transmissions, even when TTIs are misaligned. The invention is particularly useful in multi-carrier wireless communication systems where precise power control is critical.

Claim 32

Original Legal Text

32. The mobile device of claim 31 , wherein the second TTI comprises any one of one or more TTIs of the second CC that overlap with the first TTI of the first CC.

Plain English Translation

Technical Summary: This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing transmission time intervals (TTIs) in mobile devices operating with multiple component carriers (CCs). The problem addressed is the potential interference or inefficiency when TTIs from different CCs overlap, which can degrade performance in carrier aggregation scenarios. The mobile device includes a processor configured to handle multiple CCs, where each CC operates on a different frequency band. The device monitors a first TTI on a first CC and identifies one or more overlapping TTIs on a second CC. These overlapping TTIs are any TTIs from the second CC that coincide in time with the first TTI of the first CC. The processor then adjusts transmission or reception operations to mitigate conflicts, such as prioritizing one CC over another or scheduling transmissions to avoid overlaps. This ensures efficient resource utilization and reduces interference between the CCs. The solution is particularly useful in advanced wireless networks where carrier aggregation is employed to increase data rates. By dynamically managing overlapping TTIs, the device maintains stable communication links and optimizes throughput. The invention improves upon prior art by providing a flexible approach to handling TTI overlaps, allowing for better adaptability in diverse network conditions.

Claim 33

Original Legal Text

33. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the PA gain value for the calibration point is selected based at least in part on a sum of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile devices configured for power amplifier (PA) calibration in wireless communication systems. The problem addressed is optimizing PA gain settings to ensure accurate power control while efficiently managing transmit power resources during a transmission time interval (TTI). The mobile device includes a power amplifier with adjustable gain, a controller, and a calibration module. The controller reserves a portion of transmit power for calibration during a TTI, while the remaining power is allocated for data transmission. The calibration module measures the PA gain at a calibration point, where the gain value is determined based on the sum of the reserved power, the first transmit power (used for initial data transmission), and the second transmit power (used for subsequent transmission). This approach ensures precise calibration by accounting for all power allocations within the TTI, improving transmission accuracy and efficiency. The invention also includes mechanisms to adjust the PA gain dynamically based on real-time power usage, ensuring optimal performance under varying conditions. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios requiring precise power control, such as in 5G or other advanced wireless networks.

Claim 34

Original Legal Text

34. The mobile device of claim 33 , wherein the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point is equal to or greater than the sum of the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile device power management in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently allocating transmit power while ensuring reliable signal transmission. The technology focuses on calibrating power amplifier (PA) gain values to optimize power usage during transmission time intervals (TTIs) without compromising signal integrity. The mobile device includes a power amplifier configured to adjust its gain based on calibration points, which are predefined operating conditions used to determine optimal PA gain values. The device also includes a processor that calculates transmit power requirements for different transmission scenarios, including reserved power for system operations, first transmit power for primary data, and second transmit power for secondary data. The calibration process ensures that the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for a given calibration point meets or exceeds the combined power requirements of the reserved power, first transmit power, and second transmit power. This prevents power shortages during transmission, maintaining signal quality and system performance. By dynamically adjusting PA gain values based on real-time power demands, the invention improves power efficiency while ensuring reliable communication. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple data streams or system operations compete for limited transmit power resources. The calibration mechanism ensures that the mobile device can handle varying power demands without degrading transmission performance.

Claim 35

Original Legal Text

35. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI is based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power management in mobile devices operating in wireless communication systems, particularly those using carrier aggregation (CA) across multiple component carriers (CCs). The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power allocation when a mobile device must transmit on multiple CCs simultaneously, avoiding power starvation or excessive power consumption. The mobile device dynamically reserves transmit power during a first transmission time interval (TTI) on a first CC based on anticipated power increases on a second CC during the same TTI. This reservation accounts for expected power adjustments needed for the second CC, such as those caused by changes in modulation and coding schemes, channel conditions, or scheduling decisions. By pre-allocating power, the device prevents power shortages that could degrade performance or force transmission drops on either CC. The solution integrates with the device's power control mechanisms, which may include open-loop and closed-loop adjustments, to maintain stable and efficient power distribution across aggregated carriers. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where rapid power fluctuations occur, such as in high-mobility environments or when handling bursty traffic. The invention ensures reliable communication while optimizing power usage, enhancing overall system efficiency.

Claim 36

Original Legal Text

36. The mobile device of claim 35 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the mobile device to: transmit an indication of an actual amount of power reserved for the expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to power management in mobile devices operating in wireless communication systems, particularly in scenarios involving carrier aggregation (CA) where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient power allocation when a mobile device needs to increase transmit power on a secondary CC (S-CC) during a transmission time interval (TTI) on a reference CC (R-CC), while avoiding power starvation or interference. The mobile device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to monitor power usage across multiple CCs. Specifically, the device tracks power headroom (PH) on the R-CC and predicts power increases needed on the S-CC. To prevent power shortages, the device reserves a portion of its total transmit power for these expected increases. The device then transmits an indication of the actual amount of power reserved for these increases during the first TTI of the R-CC. This allows the network to dynamically adjust scheduling or power control commands based on the device's power availability, improving efficiency and reliability in CA scenarios. The solution ensures that power adjustments on the S-CC do not disrupt ongoing transmissions on the R-CC, maintaining stable communication.

Claim 37

Original Legal Text

37. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein identifying the reference CC is based at least in part on the first TTI duration being longer than the second TTI duration.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile devices in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing challenges in managing transmission time intervals (TTIs) for efficient data transmission. The problem solved involves optimizing communication by dynamically selecting a reference component carrier (CC) based on TTI durations to improve resource allocation and reduce latency. The mobile device includes a processor configured to identify a reference CC from multiple available CCs in a wireless network. The selection is based on comparing the duration of a first TTI associated with one CC to a second TTI associated with another CC. If the first TTI is longer than the second, the reference CC is identified accordingly. This comparison ensures that the device prioritizes carriers with shorter TTIs for faster data transmission, while longer TTIs may be used for more stable but slower communication. The device further includes a transceiver for transmitting and receiving data over the selected reference CC, ensuring efficient use of network resources. The processor may also adjust transmission parameters, such as modulation and coding schemes, based on the selected TTI duration to optimize throughput and reliability. This dynamic selection process enhances overall communication efficiency in heterogeneous networks with varying TTI configurations.

Claim 38

Original Legal Text

38. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the reference CC and the second CC are within a same frequency band.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to mobile devices configured for carrier aggregation, addressing the challenge of efficiently utilizing multiple component carriers (CCs) across different frequency bands to enhance data throughput and network performance. The mobile device includes a transceiver system capable of simultaneously communicating with a primary cell and a secondary cell using carrier aggregation, where the primary cell operates on a first component carrier (CC) and the secondary cell operates on a second CC. The device further includes a processor that manages the aggregation of these CCs to optimize data transmission and reception. In this specific embodiment, the reference CC and the second CC are within the same frequency band, allowing for improved synchronization and reduced interference between the aggregated carriers. This configuration enhances spectral efficiency and reliability in wireless communications, particularly in scenarios where multiple carriers are available within a single frequency band. The transceiver system dynamically adjusts parameters such as power control and timing alignment to maintain stable communication links across the aggregated carriers. The processor also handles handover procedures and load balancing to ensure seamless connectivity as the device moves between different network cells. This approach is particularly beneficial in dense urban environments or high-traffic areas where efficient use of available spectrum is critical.

Claim 39

Original Legal Text

39. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein a same PA is used by the mobile device for transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving power amplifier (PA) efficiency in mobile devices operating with carrier aggregation (CA). The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of using separate PAs for different component carriers (CCs) in CA, which increases power consumption and hardware costs. The mobile device includes a radio frequency (RF) front-end with multiple PAs, each configured to amplify signals for transmission on different CCs. A key feature is the use of a single PA for both a reference CC and a second CC, reducing the number of PAs required. The reference CC is the primary carrier used for control signaling, while the second CC is an additional carrier aggregated for increased data throughput. By sharing a PA between these CCs, the device minimizes power consumption and hardware complexity while maintaining reliable communication. The mobile device also includes a controller that manages PA selection and operation, ensuring that the shared PA meets the transmission requirements of both CCs. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where the reference CC and the second CC have similar power or frequency requirements, allowing efficient resource utilization. The invention optimizes PA usage without compromising performance, making it suitable for modern wireless standards like 5G and LTE-Advanced.

Claim 40

Original Legal Text

40. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved is equal to a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A mobile device operates in a wireless communication system using carrier aggregation, where multiple component carriers (CCs) are combined to increase data rates. The device dynamically allocates transmit power across these CCs to optimize performance while adhering to regulatory and network constraints. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently managing power distribution when transmitting on multiple CCs simultaneously, ensuring stable communication without exceeding power limits. The mobile device includes a power control module that reserves a specific amount of transmit power for uplink transmissions on a reference CC and a second CC during a transmission time interval (TTI). The reserved power is equal to the power headroom (PHR) associated with these transmissions. Power headroom represents the difference between the maximum transmit power the device is allowed to use and the power actually used. By reserving power equal to the PHR, the device ensures that it can maintain reliable communication on both CCs without violating power constraints. This approach helps prevent signal degradation and improves overall system efficiency. The power control module dynamically adjusts the reserved power based on real-time conditions, such as signal quality and interference levels, to optimize performance across all active CCs.

Claim 41

Original Legal Text

41. The mobile device of claim 25 , wherein the amount of transmit power reserved is less than a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A mobile device operates in a wireless communication system using carrier aggregation, where multiple component carriers (CCs) are combined to increase data rates. The device dynamically allocates transmit power across these CCs to optimize performance. During a transmission time interval (TTI), the device reserves a portion of its transmit power for a reference CC and a second CC. The reserved power is less than the power headroom (PHR) available for transmissions on these CCs during that TTI. Power headroom refers to the difference between the maximum transmit power the device can use and the power already allocated for transmissions. By reserving less than the full PHR, the device ensures that sufficient power remains for other operations, such as control signaling or additional data transmissions, while maintaining compliance with regulatory and network constraints. This approach improves power efficiency and reliability in carrier-aggregated communications. The device may adjust the reserved power dynamically based on changing network conditions or traffic demands. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple CCs are active simultaneously, requiring careful power management to avoid interference and ensure stable connectivity.

Claim 42

Original Legal Text

42. A network device for wireless communication, comprising: a processor; memory coupled with the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and operable, when executed by the processor, to cause the network device to: identify, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC as a reference CC; transmit, to a user equipment (UE), a first indication of a first transmit power for transmissions on the reference CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI) and a second transmit power for transmissions on a second CC of the plurality of CCs during a second TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; identify a reserved amount of transmit power based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; transmit, to the UE, a reserved power indication indicating the reserved amount of transmit power to be used by the UE in selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point; determine whether a total uplink transmit power for the first CC and the second CC exceeds a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; and communicate with the UE based at least in part on a result of the determining, including allocating a transient period to the UE for selecting an updated calibration point or identifying a phase discontinuity in an uplink transmission from the UE.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing power management in carrier aggregation (CA) scenarios where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used simultaneously. The problem solved involves ensuring efficient power allocation and calibration in uplink transmissions to prevent power violations and maintain signal integrity. The network device includes a processor and memory storing instructions to manage transmit power across multiple CCs. It identifies a reference CC from the available CCs and transmits power control indications to a user equipment (UE), specifying transmit power levels for the reference CC and another CC during overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). The device also reserves a portion of transmit power to account for expected power increases on the non-reference CC during the reference CC's TTI, providing this reserved power indication to the UE. The UE uses this information to select an appropriate power amplifier (PA) gain value for calibration. The network device then checks if the combined uplink transmit power of the CCs exceeds the PA's calibrated power limit. Based on this determination, it may allocate a transient period to the UE for adjusting the calibration point or detect phase discontinuities in the UE's uplink transmissions. This ensures proper power management and signal quality in CA communications.

Claim 43

Original Legal Text

43. The network device of claim 42 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the network device to: receive, from the UE, a PA power indication indicating an actual amount of power reserved for the expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; and determine an updated reserved amount of transmit power for a subsequent TTI on the reference CC based at least in part on receiving the PA power indication.

Plain English Translation

A network device in a wireless communication system manages power allocation for user equipment (UE) operating with carrier aggregation, where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used simultaneously. The device monitors power adjustments on a reference CC to ensure proper power distribution across all active CCs. When the UE expects to increase transmit power on a second CC during a transmission time interval (TTI) of the reference CC, the network device receives a power amplifier (PA) power indication from the UE. This indication specifies the actual power reserved for the expected increases on the second CC. The network device then adjusts the reserved transmit power for a subsequent TTI on the reference CC based on this PA power indication, ensuring efficient power utilization and avoiding interference. This mechanism helps maintain stable communication by dynamically adapting power allocation in response to real-time conditions. The solution addresses challenges in power management for carrier aggregation, particularly when power adjustments on one CC impact another, ensuring reliable data transmission and system performance.

Claim 44

Original Legal Text

44. The network device of claim 43 , wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the network device to: identify an updated second transmit power used for transmissions on the second CC during a third TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; determine that the total uplink transmit power comprising a sum of the first transmit power and the updated second transmit power exceeds the transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; identify a break in phase continuity of the transmissions on the reference CC during the first TTI based at least in part on the determination; and demodulate the transmissions on the reference CC during the first TTI based at least in part on identifying the break in phase continuity.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing power management and phase continuity issues in multi-carrier transmissions. The technology focuses on network devices handling uplink transmissions across multiple component carriers (CCs) in a time division duplex (TDD) system. The problem solved involves maintaining phase continuity in reference carrier transmissions when total uplink transmit power exceeds power amplifier (PA) capabilities, which can disrupt demodulation. The network device monitors transmit power across multiple CCs during overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). If the combined transmit power of a primary CC and a secondary CC exceeds the PA's maximum output power, the device detects a phase discontinuity in the reference CC's transmissions. This discontinuity occurs because the PA cannot sustain the required gain, leading to signal distortion. The device then demodulates the reference CC's transmissions while accounting for this phase break, ensuring reliable data recovery despite power constraints. The solution dynamically adjusts to power fluctuations, preventing demodulation errors in TDD systems where phase coherence is critical. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios with high uplink traffic or rapid power adjustments, ensuring stable communication performance.

Claim 45

Original Legal Text

45. The network device of claim 42 , wherein identifying the reference CC is based at least in part on the first TTI of the reference CC having a longer duration than a duration of the second TTI of the second CC.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for managing transmission time intervals (TTIs) across multiple component carriers (CCs) in a network device. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently coordinate TTI durations between different CCs to optimize resource allocation and reduce interference in multi-carrier communication environments. The network device operates in a system where multiple CCs are used to transmit data. Each CC has its own TTI, which defines the time interval for transmitting data units. The device identifies a reference CC among the available CCs based on the duration of its TTI. Specifically, the reference CC is selected because its TTI is longer than the TTI of at least one other CC. This selection ensures that the reference CC's longer TTI can serve as a stable timing reference for coordinating transmissions across the multiple CCs. By aligning or adjusting the timing of other CCs relative to the reference CC, the device can improve synchronization, reduce latency, and enhance overall system efficiency. The technique is particularly useful in scenarios where different CCs have varying TTI lengths, such as in mixed numerology deployments or heterogeneous network configurations. The invention helps maintain reliable communication while accommodating diverse TTI requirements.

Claim 46

Original Legal Text

46. The network device of claim 42 , wherein the reference CC and the second CC are within a same frequency band.

Plain English Translation

A network device is disclosed for managing communication channels in wireless networks, particularly addressing challenges in multi-carrier or carrier aggregation scenarios. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the device to handle multiple communication components (CCs) across different frequency bands. Specifically, the device is configured to manage a reference CC and a second CC, where both CCs operate within the same frequency band. This configuration allows for improved coordination and resource allocation between the CCs, enhancing network efficiency and reliability. The device may also include additional features such as dynamic switching between CCs, load balancing, and interference mitigation to optimize performance. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple CCs are deployed within a single frequency band, ensuring seamless communication and minimizing disruptions. The device's ability to operate within the same frequency band for both the reference and second CCs simplifies deployment and reduces complexity in network management.

Claim 47

Original Legal Text

47. The network device of claim 42 , wherein the reserved amount of transmit power is equal to a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A network device is configured to manage transmit power across multiple component carriers (CCs) in a wireless communication system. The device includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to allocate a reserved amount of transmit power for transmissions on a second CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI). The reserved power is equal to the power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on both a reference CC and the second CC during that TTI. Power headroom represents the difference between the maximum transmit power allowed and the power currently used, ensuring efficient power allocation while avoiding violations of regulatory or system-specific power limits. The device dynamically adjusts power allocation to maintain stable communication across multiple CCs, particularly in scenarios where power constraints or interference conditions vary. This approach optimizes resource utilization and minimizes transmission errors by ensuring sufficient power is reserved for critical transmissions on the second CC while maintaining compliance with power constraints on the reference CC. The solution addresses challenges in multi-CC environments where power management must balance performance and regulatory compliance.

Claim 48

Original Legal Text

48. The network device of claim 42 , wherein the reserved amount of transmit power is less than a power headroom (PHR) associated with transmissions on the reference CC and the second CC during the first TTI.

Plain English Translation

A network device operates in a wireless communication system where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used for data transmission. The device dynamically allocates transmit power across these CCs to optimize performance. During a first transmission time interval (TTI), the device reserves a portion of its transmit power for a reference CC and a second CC. The reserved power is intentionally set to be less than the power headroom (PHR) available for transmissions on these CCs during the same TTI. Power headroom refers to the difference between the maximum transmit power the device is allowed to use and the power currently being used. By reserving less than the full PHR, the device ensures that additional power can be allocated dynamically if needed, improving flexibility in power management. This approach helps balance power distribution across CCs, reducing the risk of power starvation on any single carrier while maintaining efficient use of available resources. The device may also adjust power allocation based on real-time conditions, such as channel quality or traffic load, to further optimize performance. This method is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple CCs are active simultaneously, ensuring stable and efficient communication.

Claim 49

Original Legal Text

49. An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), comprising: means for identifying, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC having a first transmission time interval (TTI) duration as a reference CC and a second CC having a second TTI duration different from the first TTI duration; means for determining, at a first TTI boundary of a first TTI of the reference CC, a first transmit power for the reference CC and a second transmit power for the second CC of the plurality of CCs; means for determining an amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI for adjusting the second transmit power at second TTI boundaries of the second CC; means for selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power; and means for transmitting, during the first TTI, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the second transmit power for the second CC, based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved, wherein the means for transmitting are configured for digitally backing off from a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing power control challenges in carrier aggregation (CA) where multiple component carriers (CCs) with different transmission time interval (TTI) durations are used. The problem arises when a user equipment (UE) must manage transmit power across CCs with varying TTI lengths, leading to potential power allocation conflicts and inefficient power amplifier (PA) usage. The apparatus includes a UE configured to identify a reference CC with a first TTI duration and at least one additional CC with a different TTI duration. At the boundary of the reference CC's TTI, the UE determines transmit powers for both the reference CC and the additional CC. It then reserves a portion of the transmit power during the reference CC's TTI to adjust the transmit power of the additional CC at its own TTI boundaries. The UE selects a PA gain value for calibration based on the reserved power, the reference CC's transmit power, and the additional CC's transmit power. During transmission, the UE digitally backs off from the calibrated PA gain to ensure proper power allocation across all CCs. This approach optimizes power usage and avoids conflicts between CCs with mismatched TTI durations.

Claim 50

Original Legal Text

50. An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station, comprising: means for identifying, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC as a reference CC; means for transmitting, to a user equipment (UE), a first indication of a first transmit power for transmissions on the reference CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI) and a second transmit power for transmissions on a second CC of the plurality of CCs during a second TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; means for identifying a reserved amount of transmit power based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; and means for transmitting, to the UE, a reserved power indication indicating the reserved amount of transmit power to be used by the UE in selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point; means for determining whether a total uplink transmit power for the first CC and the second CC exceeds a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; and means for communicating with the UE based at least in part on a result of the determining, including allocating a transient period to the UE for selecting an updated calibration point or identifying a phase discontinuity in an uplink transmission from the UE.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically carrier aggregation (CA) in uplink transmissions from user equipment (UE) to a base station. The problem addressed is managing power control and calibration in CA scenarios where multiple component carriers (CCs) are used simultaneously, leading to potential power imbalances and phase discontinuities during overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). The apparatus at the base station identifies one CC as a reference CC and transmits power control indications to the UE, specifying transmit power levels for the reference CC and another CC during overlapping TTIs. The base station also reserves a portion of transmit power to account for expected power increases on the non-reference CC, providing this reserved power indication to the UE. The UE uses this information to select an appropriate power amplifier (PA) gain value for calibration, ensuring stable uplink transmissions. The base station monitors whether the combined uplink transmit power from the UE on both CCs exceeds the PA's calibrated power limit. If so, it communicates with the UE to allocate a transient period for recalibration or to detect phase discontinuities in the UE's uplink signals. This ensures efficient power management and maintains transmission quality in CA environments. The system dynamically adjusts to power fluctuations, preventing signal degradation during overlapping transmissions.

Claim 51

Original Legal Text

51. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE), the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to: identify, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC having a first transmission time interval (TTI) duration as a reference CC and a second CC having a second TTI duration different from the first TTI duration; determine, at a first transmission time interval (TTI) boundary of a first TTI of the reference CC, a first transmit power for the reference CC and a second transmit power for the second CC of the plurality of CCs; determine an amount of transmit power to be reserved during the first TTI for adjusting the second transmit power at second TTI boundaries of the second CC; select a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved during the first TTI, the first transmit power, and the second transmit power; and transmit, during the first TTI, at the first transmit power for the reference CC and at the second transmit power for the second CC, based at least in part on the amount of transmit power reserved, wherein the transmitting comprises digitally backing off from a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication in carrier aggregation (CA) systems, specifically addressing power control challenges when multiple component carriers (CCs) with different transmission time interval (TTI) durations are aggregated. In CA, UEs must manage transmit power across CCs to comply with regulatory limits while maintaining efficient communication. The problem arises when CCs have mismatched TTI durations, complicating power adjustments at TTI boundaries. The invention provides a solution by designating one CC as a reference CC with a first TTI duration, while other CCs operate with different TTI durations. At the reference CC's TTI boundary, the UE determines transmit powers for both the reference CC and a second CC. It then reserves a portion of transmit power during the reference CC's TTI to accommodate adjustments needed for the second CC's TTI boundaries. A power amplifier (PA) gain value is selected based on the reserved power, the reference CC's transmit power, and the second CC's transmit power. During transmission, the UE digitally backs off from the PA's calibration point to ensure power compliance across all CCs. This approach ensures efficient power management in CA systems with varying TTI durations, preventing interference and maintaining signal integrity.

Claim 52

Original Legal Text

52. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing code for wireless communication at a base station, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to: identify, from a plurality of component carriers (CCs) used in carrier aggregation (CA) communication, a first CC as a reference CC; transmit, to a user equipment (UE), a first indication of a first transmit power for transmissions on the reference CC during a first transmission time interval (TTI) and a second transmit power for transmissions on a second CC of the plurality of CCs during a second TTI that at least partially overlaps with the first TTI; identify a reserved amount of transmit power based at least in part on expected transmit power increases on the second CC during the first TTI of the reference CC; transmit, to the UE, a reserved power indication indicating the reserved amount of transmit power to be used by the UE in selecting a power amplifier (PA) gain value for a calibration point; determine whether a total uplink transmit power for the first CC and the second CC exceeds a transmit power corresponding to the PA gain value for the calibration point; and communicate with the UE based at least in part on a result of the determining, including allocating a transient period to the UE for selecting an updated calibration point or identifying a phase discontinuity in an uplink transmission from the UE.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically carrier aggregation (CA) in uplink transmissions from a user equipment (UE) to a base station. The problem addressed is managing transmit power across multiple component carriers (CCs) to prevent power amplifier (PA) saturation and ensure stable uplink communication. During CA, a base station identifies one CC as a reference CC and transmits power control indications to the UE, specifying transmit power levels for the reference CC and at least one other CC during overlapping transmission time intervals (TTIs). The base station also reserves a portion of transmit power to account for expected power increases on the non-reference CC during the reference CC's TTI. This reserved power indication helps the UE select an appropriate PA gain value for calibration. The base station then checks if the combined uplink transmit power from the UE on both CCs exceeds the PA's calibrated power limit. If so, it allocates a transient period for the UE to adjust its calibration point or detects phase discontinuities in the UE's uplink transmission to mitigate power-related issues. This ensures efficient power management and stable communication in CA scenarios.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

August 27, 2019

Inventors

Prashanth Akula
Amir Farajidana
Seyedkianoush Hosseini

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Cite as: Patentable. “POWER RESERVATION FOR CARRIER AGGREGATION SIGNALING DURING SHORTENED TRANSMISSION TIME INTERVALS” (10397886). https://patentable.app/patents/10397886

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POWER RESERVATION FOR CARRIER AGGREGATION SIGNALING DURING SHORTENED TRANSMISSION TIME INTERVALS